The 12 best songs to play on guitar

1. Stand By Me (Ben E. King)

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• Love song
• Pop Music
• R&B
• Soul
• timeless classic

'Stand By Me' by Ben E. King is a timeless classic that's not only a popular choice for guitarists, but also a relatively beginner-friendly song to learn. The chords are simple and repetitive, making it a great song for developing basic strumming skills and chord changes. The iconic melody is easy to pick up and the rhythm is consistent throughout, creating a catchy and memorable tune.

The song's popularity stems from its heartfelt lyrics about friendship and support, making it resonate with audiences of all ages. Its widespread recognition makes it a rewarding song to learn, as you'll likely be able to play along with other musicians and share your musical talent with friends. To master this song, focus on developing a steady rhythm and practicing the chord transitions smoothly. Once you have the basics down, you can explore different strumming patterns to add your own personal touch to this timeless classic.

2. Sweet Home Alabama - Second Helping (Expanded Edition)

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• Nostalgia
• Anthem
• Classic rock
• Country Rock
• Blues Rock

From the opening riff of "Sweet Home Alabama" Lynyrd Skynyrd's iconic southern rock anthem, guitarists will immediately recognize a classic. This song, a staple of the genre and a cultural touchstone, is a great choice for intermediate guitarists looking to master a legendary track. The song features a mix of powerful strumming, driving rhythms, and memorable lead lines, making it a challenging but rewarding learning experience.

While the riff itself is relatively simple to learn, the real challenge lies in capturing the raw energy and emotion that defines "Sweet Home Alabama" Focus on nailing the rhythm and timing of the verses, and practicing the iconic "Sweet Home Alabama" call-and-response section with a strong sense of groove. With some dedication, you'll be able to play this timeless classic with the same swagger and spirit that made Lynyrd Skynyrd legends.

3. Crazy Little Thing Called Love (Queen)

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• Love song
• Classic rock
• Upbeat
• Queen

"Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen is a classic rock anthem that's sure to get your fingers flying across the fretboard. Though written by Freddie Mercury in a mere ten minutes, this song's catchy rockabilly rhythm and iconic guitar riff have made it a beloved classic for decades. The song features relatively simple chords and a straightforward strumming pattern, making it a great choice for intermediate guitarists looking to expand their repertoire.

While the guitar part is not overly complex, it does incorporate some interesting techniques like palm muting and a driving rhythm that adds a lot of energy to the song. If you're looking to learn this song, focus on getting the rhythm and timing right. Once you've got those down, you can start adding in the nuances of the guitar part, like the palm muting and the little fills in the bridge. With practice, you'll be rocking out to "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" in no time.

4. Up Around The Bend (Cosmo's Factory)

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• Folk rock
• Classic rock
• Country Rock
• Creedence Clearwater Revival
• Southern Rock

'Up Around the Bend' by Creedence Clearwater Revival is a guitar anthem that has stood the test of time, becoming a staple in the rock and roll canon. While the song's infectious energy and powerful vocals make it a joy to listen to, it's the iconic guitar riff that truly makes it stand out. This riff, instantly recognizable for its swaggering simplicity and bluesy edge, has become a cornerstone of guitar playing, and mastering it is a rite of passage for many guitarists.

While 'Up Around the Bend' is not a beginner song, its structure is relatively straightforward, making it an achievable challenge for intermediate guitarists. The key to conquering this song lies in nailing the riff, which requires practice in transitioning between chords and picking patterns. Mastering the riff will not only help you play the song accurately, but also solidify your understanding of bluesy rock guitar techniques, opening the door to exploring a wide range of other classic rock songs.

5. Wake Me up When September Ends (Green Day)

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• Alternative rock
• Sad Ballad
• Pop Punk
• Green Day

"Wake Me Up When September Ends" released by Green Day in 2005, is a powerful rock ballad that resonates deeply with listeners, especially guitarists. This song, penned by lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong as a tribute to his father, who passed away in September, became an instant classic, reaching number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts globally. Its iconic status makes it a rewarding song for guitarists to learn, offering a sense of accomplishment and recognition.

While the song's emotional depth makes it a powerful listening experience, it also presents an engaging challenge for guitarists. Its driving rhythm and catchy melody are accessible for intermediate players, while the layered guitar parts and intricate chord progressions offer a rewarding experience for more advanced guitarists. Learning "Wake Me Up When September Ends" requires careful attention to the timing and dynamics, particularly the powerful build-up to the final chorus. Mastering this song will not only enhance your guitar skills but also provide a connection to a timeless rock anthem.

6. Creep (Radiohead)

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• Acoustic Guitar
• Alternative rock
• Indie Rock
• Sad Love Song
• Art rock

If you haven't yet experienced the raw energy of "Creep" by Radiohead, now is the perfect time to dive into its iconic sound. This song, a powerful anthem of feeling like an outsider, is a guitarists' dream, offering a unique blend of raw emotion and technical challenge. "Creep" features a simple but effective chord progression that provides a foundation for Jonny Greenwood's memorable and often-copied guitar riff.

While the song itself might seem straightforward, mastering the powerful and driving rhythm section, combined with the dynamic transitions and soaring guitar solo, will challenge even experienced guitarists. The song's popularity has made it a staple for aspiring musicians, and its enduring cultural impact keeps it relevant for generations of guitarists. To tackle this classic, start by mastering the basic chords and rhythm, then practice the iconic guitar riff and solo sections. You'll be surprised at how quickly you can add your own unique touch to this timeless hit.

7. Losing My Religion - Out Of Time (25th Anniversary Edition)

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• Alternative rock
• Pop rock
• R.E.M.
• Jangle pop
• Post-Punk

"Losing My Religion" by R.E.M. is more than just a song; it's a timeless anthem that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the sting of unrequited love or the frustration of trying to keep up with someone else's pace. Its distinctive mandolin riff and heartfelt lyrics have made it a staple of alternative rock radio for over three decades, and it's a song that continues to be covered and enjoyed by musicians and listeners alike.

For guitarists, "Losing My Religion" is a challenging but rewarding song to learn. While the main riff is relatively simple, mastering the song's intricate fingerpicking patterns and dynamic shifts in tempo require patience and practice. The song features a mix of strumming and fingerpicking techniques, making it a good choice for those looking to expand their guitar skills. To get started, focus on learning the mandolin riff in the intro, and gradually build up your knowledge of the chords and rhythms. With some dedication, you'll be playing "Losing My Religion" like a seasoned pro in no time.

8. Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nevermind (Remastered)

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• Alternative rock
• Nirvana
• Punk Rock
• Grunge Rock

With its iconic opening riff, powerful chords, and Kurt Cobain's signature vocals, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana is a grunge anthem that has captivated audiences for over three decades. The song's raw energy and rebellious spirit are conveyed through a driving rhythm section and a memorable guitar melody that is both simple and effective. This powerful combination of elements makes it a classic and makes it a must-learn for any aspiring guitarist.

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" is a relatively straightforward song to learn on guitar, making it an excellent choice for intermediate players. The song features a combination of power chords and single-note riffs, and the rhythm is simple and repetitive, making it easy to learn. The song also features a memorable guitar solo that is relatively simple to learn but adds a lot of energy to the song. If you are looking for a classic rock song to add to your repertoire, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is a great choice. The song's popularity and influence continue to inspire guitarists around the world.

9. Blackbird

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• Love song
• Acoustic Guitar
• Emotional Ballad
• Acoustic Ballad
• Folk rock

"Blackbird" by The Beatles is a timeless classic that stands out as a perfect choice for guitarists of all levels. While the song is well-known for its poignant lyrics, its simple yet beautiful guitar arrangement makes it a particularly rewarding track to learn. The acoustic guitar part primarily features fingerpicking, which can be tackled by both beginners and intermediate players. The fingerpicking pattern is fairly straightforward, and mastering it allows you to focus on the song's emotional depth.

For those just starting, focus on mastering the basic chord progression and fingerpicking pattern. As you become more comfortable, you can explore the subtleties of the arrangement, such as the subtle variations in the fingerpicking pattern and the use of open strings. This iconic track has stood the test of time and its universal appeal makes it a great addition to any guitarist's repertoire.

10. Satisfaction (Out Of Our Heads)

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• Classic rock
• Rock and Roll
• Hard Rock
• Blues Rock
• The Rolling Stones

"Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock anthem that has captivated generations of music lovers. It's a song that's instantly recognizable, thanks to Keith Richards' iconic guitar riff, which is a staple of rock music and has been covered by countless artists. The song is relatively easy to learn on guitar, making it perfect for aspiring guitarists who want to tackle a classic. The main riff is based on power chords, which are relatively simple to play, and the rhythm is straightforward. Although the song is a bit faster than some other rock classics, it's a manageable challenge for beginners.

Learning the iconic riff is a great way to get started, and it opens up a world of possibilities for solos and improvisation. Focus on getting the rhythm and feel right, and don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and variations to create your own unique take on this timeless classic.

11. Sweet Child O' Mine (Guns N' Roses - 1970)

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• Love song
• Love Ballad
• Rock Anthem
• Classic Ballad
• Guns N' Roses

"Sweet Child o' Mine" by Guns N' Roses is a classic rock anthem and a must-learn for guitarists of all levels. Its iconic opening riff, played by Slash, is instantly recognizable and arguably one of the most famous guitar parts in history. While the solo might challenge intermediate to advanced players, the song's main chords are relatively simple, making it accessible to beginners. This makes "Sweet Child o' Mine" a great choice for learning some basic rock guitar techniques, including strumming, fingerpicking, and even basic soloing.

The song's widespread popularity and cultural impact make it a rewarding experience to learn. Whether you're a fan of classic rock or just looking for a fun and challenging song to play, "Sweet Child o' Mine" is a great choice. Focus on mastering the iconic riff and the basic chord progressions, and you'll be well on your way to playing this timeless rock classic.

12. I'm Yours (We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things.)

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• Love song
• Pop Music
• Acoustic
• Easy Listening
• Romantic Ballad

"I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz is a classic guitar song that's both instantly recognizable and surprisingly approachable for guitarists of all levels. While the song features some fingerpicking patterns, it's primarily driven by strumming, making it a great choice for beginners looking to learn a popular hit. The chords are relatively simple, consisting mainly of major and minor chords, and the catchy melody makes it easy to follow along.

The song's enduring popularity stems from its cheerful, uplifting message and its relatable lyrics about finding love and embracing life. It's a true feel-good anthem that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. To get started, focus on mastering the basic strumming pattern and chord changes. Once you have those down, you can then work on adding the fingerpicking embellishments to create a more nuanced sound.

13. Champagne Supernova

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"Champagne Supernova" by Oasis is a classic rock anthem that stands out as a challenging yet rewarding guitar piece. While the song is known for its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, it's also a testament to Noel Gallagher's masterful songwriting and guitar skills. The song features a mix of complex chords, intricate fingerpicking patterns, and powerful guitar solos, making it a true test for intermediate to advanced guitarists.

Its widespread popularity, coupled with its emotional resonance, makes it a great choice for aspiring guitarists seeking to expand their repertoire. Mastering this song can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, knowing you've conquered a true rock classic. To tackle this song effectively, focus on learning the intricate chord progressions and the driving rhythm, which will help you build a solid foundation for the song's iconic guitar lines.

14. I'll Be There For You

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• Acoustic
• Pop rock
• Bon Jovi
• Heartfelt

"I'll Be There for You" by Bon Jovi is a timeless power ballad that resonates with countless fans. The song's heartfelt lyrics and soaring melody, driven by a strong guitar presence, have made it a beloved classic for decades. Its memorable chorus and iconic guitar riff have cemented its place in rock history.

For guitarists, "I'll Be There for You" offers a rewarding challenge. The song features a combination of power chords, strumming patterns, and a driving rhythm guitar line. While the main riff is relatively straightforward, the bridge and solo sections require more dexterity and a solid understanding of blues-based scales. This song can be a great opportunity to develop your skills as a rhythm guitarist and explore lead guitar techniques. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, learning this song can be a fulfilling experience.

15. Take Me Home, Country Roads (Poems, Prayers and Promises - 1970)

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"Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing that resonates deeply with guitarists of all levels. While it shares a similar uplifting spirit with other classic folk anthems like Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind," Denver's song has a distinct charm and ease, making it a favorite for both seasoned players and beginners. The song's simple yet powerful chord progression, largely based on G, C, and D chords, makes it accessible to new guitarists, while the fingerpicking style adds depth and complexity for those seeking a greater challenge. The song's widespread popularity ensures a sense of accomplishment for any guitarist who masters its melodious arrangement.

A key to successfully playing "Take Me Home, Country Roads" lies in capturing the song's gentle rhythm. Focusing on the steady strumming pattern, which is the backbone of the song, allows the melody to shine through. Once comfortable with the basic structure, exploring the subtle fingerpicking patterns within the verses can add another dimension to the performance.

16. House of the Rising Sun (1964)

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• Folk rock
• Classic rock
• Blues
• The Animals
• 60's Rock

With its mournful melody and haunting lyrics, 'House of the Rising Sun' by The Animals has captivated audiences for generations. The song's raw emotion, delivered through Eric Burdon's powerful vocals, paints a vivid picture of a life gone astray, making it a timeless classic. This song's iconic status has made it a staple for guitarists of all levels, its enduring popularity ensuring that it remains a rewarding piece to learn.

The song's structure is relatively straightforward, making it a good choice for aspiring guitarists. While the arrangement features a mix of fingerpicking and strumming patterns, the core chords are relatively simple. However, the song's true beauty lies in its nuanced delivery, demanding careful attention to timing and dynamics. For guitarists seeking to master the song, mastering the subtle shifts in rhythm and phrasing can unlock its emotional depth and capture the essence of the original recording.

17. We Are The Champions

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• Queen
• Rock clásico
• Música icónica
• Himno del deporte

"We Are The Champions" by Queen is a legendary anthem that has become a staple in rock music history. Its soaring vocals, powerful guitar riffs, and anthemic chorus make it a crowd-pleasing favorite. For guitarists, the song offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. The chords are relatively straightforward, but the song's signature rhythmic and melodic parts require precision and finesse. The solo sections feature a mix of classic rock licks and complex fingerwork, making them perfect for honing your lead guitar skills.

Despite its difficulty, "We Are The Champions" is a highly rewarding song to learn on guitar. Its widespread popularity means you'll easily find resources and inspiration online. To approach this classic, focus on mastering the distinctive rhythmic patterns and intricate lead guitar parts. With dedication and practice, you can unleash the champion within you and bring this iconic anthem to life on your guitar.

18. Some Nights

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"Some Nights" by fun. is a powerful and anthemic indie-pop track that has resonated with listeners since its release in 2012. The song's blend of driving rhythms, soaring vocals, and introspective lyrics captures the anxieties and triumphs of young adulthood, making it a relatable and memorable listening experience. For guitarists, "Some Nights" presents a moderate challenge, offering a satisfying combination of rhythmic strumming and memorable chord progressions.

While the song's catchy melody makes it relatively easy to pick up, mastering the nuances of the intricate chord changes and the dynamic transitions will require some practice and dedication. The use of power chords and open chords adds to the song's emotional depth and provides a solid foundation for learning more complex guitar techniques. Its popularity and cultural impact make "Some Nights" a great addition to any guitarist's repertoire, providing a rewarding learning experience and a song that is sure to impress friends and fellow musicians.

19. Blue (1995)

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"Blue" by The Jayhawks, a classic from their 1995 album "Tomorrow the Green Grass", is a song that resonates deeply with guitarists of all levels. While not a technically demanding track, it features a compelling melody and chord progression that's both memorable and accessible. The song's popularity stems from its raw emotional honesty, capturing themes of heartbreak and longing in a way that feels universal. This song stands out for its poignant lyrics and the haunting harmonies that create a truly moving experience.

For guitarists looking to learn "Blue" a good starting point is mastering the main chord progression. The song primarily utilizes G, D, Em, and C, with some subtle variations, making it ideal for intermediate players. The song's structure is straightforward, and the focus is on the emotionality conveyed through the melody and vocals. Practice focusing on each chord's voicing and try to capture the delicate interplay of the instruments, especially the guitar and the vocals. By nailing these fundamentals, you'll be well on your way to mastering this enduring classic.

20. Girl from Ipanema (1964)

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"The Girl from Ipanema" by Antonio Carlos Jobim is a timeless classic that's not only captivating for listeners but also a rewarding challenge for guitarists. While the song features a relatively simple chord progression, its signature bossa nova rhythm requires precise fingerpicking and a smooth, flowing approach. This makes it a great choice for intermediate guitarists looking to expand their repertoire and learn a beautiful, iconic piece.

Although the chords might seem easy at first glance, capturing the essence of the song relies on mastering the distinctive rhythmic patterns. Focus on creating a steady, relaxed strumming or fingerpicking pattern, paying attention to the syncopated rhythms that define bossa nova. You'll be rewarded with a song that's equally enjoyable to play and to listen to. The song's popularity and enduring appeal ensure that learning it will be a worthwhile investment, adding a recognizable and sophisticated piece to your guitar skills.